1

Mountain Guide Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Medical Director

Roanoke, VA ยท On-site

$100 - $130/hr

The Medical Director serves as the Veterinarian-in-Charge and a key member of the leadership team, guiding the medical vision and clinical operations of Mountain View Humane. This role ensures the ...

New

Neurology Medical Director

Lynchburg, VA

$311K - $389K/yr

... to guide growth, innovation, and culture change within neurology. What We Offer: * $50k Sign-on ... Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking Sharp Top Mountain or the Appalachian Trail, biking Blackwater ...

Neurology Medical Director

Lynchburg, VA ยท On-site

$311K - $389K/yr

... to guide growth, innovation, and culture change within neurology. What We Offer: * $50k Sign-on ... Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking Sharp Top Mountain or the Appalachian Trail, biking Blackwater ...

Showing results 21-40

Mountain Guide information

See Virginia salary details

$7

$19

$39

How much do mountain guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for mountain guide in Virginia is $19.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.61 and $19.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Mountain Guide vs Rock Climber?

AspectMountain GuideRock Climber
CertificationsAMGA/IFMGA certificationsNone required, but advanced skills and training
Work EnvironmentMountains, alpine terrain, outdoorCliffs, indoor gyms, outdoor rock formations
Industry UsageGuiding clients in mountain environmentsPracticing and competing in rock climbing
Common Search IntentGuiding, safety, outdoor adventureClimbing techniques, training, gear

While both roles involve climbing skills, a Mountain Guide specializes in leading clients safely through mountain terrains, often requiring certifications like AMGA or IFMGA. Rock Climbers focus on climbing techniques, training, and often pursue the sport recreationally or competitively. The main difference lies in the environment and professional responsibilities, with Mountain Guides providing guided experiences in challenging mountain terrains.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mountain guide?

To thrive as a Mountain Guide, you need advanced mountaineering skills, wilderness first aid certification, and typically formal qualifications such as IFMGA/UIAGM accreditation. Familiarity with navigation tools, climbing equipment, avalanche safety systems, and weather assessment technology is essential. Strong leadership, decision-making, and effective communication are soft skills that set exceptional guides apart. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring client safety, adapting to changing conditions, and delivering memorable outdoor experiences.

What is a mountain guide?

Mountain guides are highly trained professionals who lead individuals or groups on mountain expeditions, hikes, climbs, and other alpine activities. They are experts in navigation, safety, and risk management in mountainous terrain, and often hold certifications from recognized guiding organizations. Mountain guides provide instruction, ensure the safety of their clients, and offer local knowledge about the environment and conditions. Their expertise is essential for those looking to explore challenging or unfamiliar mountain areas safely.

What are some common challenges mountain guides face when leading groups, and how can they effectively manage them?

Mountain Guides often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather, varying client skill levels, and ensuring group safety on technical terrain. Effective communication, thorough pre-trip planning, and adaptability are crucial for managing these situations. Guides must be skilled at assessing and mitigating risks, providing clear instructions, and fostering teamwork among clients to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
What are popular job titles related to Mountain Guide jobs in Virginia? For Mountain Guide jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Mountain Guide job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Locum Tenens, 79% Full Time, and 16% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,635 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

$100 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

The Medical Director serves as the Veterinarian-in-Charge and a key member of the leadership team, guiding the medical vision and clinical operations of Mountain View Humane. This role ensures the delivery of high-quality, efficient veterinary care in a high-volume setting while maintaining compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. The Medical Director provides handsโ€‘on surgical and medical care, leads and mentors medical staff, and develops protocols that support the health and wellโ€‘being of animals served by the organization. This position plays a critical role in advancing Mountain View Humaneโ€™s mission and impact within the community.

MEDICAL/SURGICAL
  • Examine animals preโ€‘ and postโ€‘operatively to assess surgical readiness and monitor recovery
  • Perform highโ€‘quality surgical sterilizations and other necessary procedures
  • Perform dental procedures, including exams and extractions
  • Perform euthanasia in accordance with current medical and ethical standards
  • Administer vaccinations and provide recommendations for followโ€‘up and preventive care
  • Provide wellness services, including exams, vaccinations, retroviral testing, and preventive care recommendations
  • Supervise the handling, administration, and recordโ€‘keeping of controlled substances by Licensed Veterinary Technicians
  • Oversee postโ€‘operative rechecks and prescribe treatments to ensure complete surgical recovery
  • Ensure adherence to preโ€‘, periโ€‘, and postโ€‘operative care standards for all patients
LEADERSHIP
  • Provide clinical leadership for the veterinary program, including evaluation of medical, surgical, and disease control protocols
  • Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of medical protocols and standards of care
  • Collaborate with management to assess and implement best practices in clinical care and operations
  • Ensure medical records are accurate and maintained in compliance with regulatory standards
  • Ensure compliance with all organizational and governmental regulations, including those of the Virginia Board of Veterinary Medicine and the Drug Enforcement Administration
Administration
  • Collaborate with the Lead LVT to develop staff schedules that ensure appropriate coverage
  • Participate in the hiring, supervision, and development of medical staff in partnership with leadership
  • Oversee training and professional development of medical staff
  • Mentor associate veterinarians in highโ€‘quality, highโ€‘volume spay/neuter (HQHVSN) techniques
  • Serve as an effective team leader, fostering a positive, collaborative, and accountable work environment
  • Serve as a liaison to the veterinary and petโ€‘owning community, promoting the mission of Mountain View Humane
  • Collaborate with the Virginiaโ€‘Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine to support and enhance the veterinary externship program
OPERATIONS
  • Develop and manage surgical and medical budgets within organizational guidelines
  • Monitor and optimize surgical and medical capacity to support efficient clinic operations
  • Ensure proper maintenance and functionality of medical and surgical equipment in collaboration with LVTs
  • Develop and maintain standard operating procedures for medical and surgical care
  • Conduct performance evaluations for medical staff
  • Communicate updates and solicit input on medical protocols and clinic operations through regular staff and veterinary meetings
  • Support organizational initiatives, including community outreach, fundraising, and public engagement
ESSENTIAL SKILLS
  • Ability to analyze, review and make adjustments to operational and organizational protocols with a willingness to learn, implement, and teach.
  • Ability to effectively lead a highโ€‘functioning team.
  • Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Interest in animal welfare, spaying/neutering and serving communities.
  • Ability to think quickly and remain calm in the event of an emergency.
  • Must be able to work efficiently and effectively in a highโ€‘volume, fastโ€‘paced clinic situation
  • Must be able to respond quickly to a variety of medical situations
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to lift and move objects and animals weighing up to 50 pounds for short distances and to humanely restrain an animal when necessary
  • Ability to work standing for 8โ€‘plus hours, and work within a small space
  • Must be able to bend and kneel repeatedly
  • Must have the ability to handle and work around animals and chemicals/gases/cleaning products and sharps including needles and surgical blades
EDUCATIONAL OR LICENSING REQUIREMENTS
  • Must be a licensed veterinarian in the Commonwealth of Virginia, or able to obtain VA license before start date
  • Must possess a valid driverโ€™s license
  • Must possess DEA License or ability to obtain a license (cost covered by clinic)
#J-18808-Ljbffr